Healthy Whole Wheat Banana Bread

why make this recipe

Healthy Whole Wheat Banana Bread is a delightful treat that brings together the goodness of bananas and the nutty flavor of whole wheat flour. It is a fantastic way to use overripe bananas, and it also offers a healthier alternative to traditional banana bread. With natural sweeteners like honey and applesauce, this recipe satisfies your sweet tooth without compromising on health. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that anyone can make!

how to make Healthy Whole Wheat Banana Bread

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup applesauce
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, combine the honey, applesauce, and mashed bananas. Mix well.
  4. Gradually add the banana mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  5. Fold in the walnuts and milk.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Let cool before slicing.

how to serve Healthy Whole Wheat Banana Bread

You can serve Healthy Whole Wheat Banana Bread as a breakfast option or an afternoon snack. It goes well with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also spread a little butter or nut butter on a slice for extra flavor. Adding a few slices of fresh fruit on the side can make it a complete meal!

how to store Healthy Whole Wheat Banana Bread

To store Healthy Whole Wheat Banana Bread, keep it wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can stay fresh at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just slice it before freezing and place each slice in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to three months in the freezer.

tips to make Healthy Whole Wheat Banana Bread

  • Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor. The more spots, the sweeter they are!
  • Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined to keep the bread light.
  • You can add more nuts or even some chocolate chips for extra fun!

variation

You can add different ingredients according to your taste. Consider adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or try swapping walnuts for pecans. For a different twist, you can include spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour, but it will change the texture and health benefits. Whole wheat flour is more nutritious and gives a denser, heartier bread.

How can I make this bread gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, which helps with the bread’s structure.

What should I do if my banana bread is too dense?

If your banana bread turns out too dense, it could be due to overmixing or using too much flour. Be careful not to scoop flour directly with the measuring cup; instead, spoon it into the cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.

Healthy Whole Wheat Banana Bread

A delightful and healthier alternative to traditional banana bread made with whole wheat flour, ripe bananas, and natural sweeteners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup honey Natural sweetener
  • 1/2 cup applesauce
  • 3 count ripe bananas, mashed Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor
  • 1 cup milk Can be substituted with plant-based milk
Add-ins
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts Can replace with pecans or omit

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, combine the honey, applesauce, and mashed bananas. Mix well.
  4. Gradually add the banana mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  5. Fold in the walnuts and milk.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  2. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Let cool before slicing.

Notes

Store in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep at room temperature for 3-4 days or freeze for up to three months.

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating